Rest and care are so important. When you take time to replenish your spirit, it allows you to serve others from the overflow. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.– Eleanor Brownn
I’ll start with this: I am a huge advocate for self-care. I love taking time to be alone and do the things that make me happy, whether it be watching a chick flick and crying for an afternoon or indulging in my favorite Taco Bell combo meal. Self-care moments allow me to recharge and begin to pour into other people’s lives more genuinely. I think it’s because of this mindset that I am so baffled when I hear my friends or family say they ‘don’t have time to take care of themselves’ or they ‘feel guilty doing that kind of stuff.’
What is Self-Care
Self-care is NOT selfish. It is not something to feel guilty about nor is it something to put on the back burner of life. It is a necessity! It feels as if self-care has been placed on a pedestal only to be obtained by those already doing ok or those with plenty of free time when, if we’re being honest, it is neither.
I can hear you now: What qualifies as self-care? Let me answer that in one word. ANYTHING. Self-care does not have to over the top, expensive, or extremely time-consuming. It can be simple and quick. The point is for it to recharge and revive yourself. It is as unique as you are.
Let me give you some ideas of where to start.
Allow yourself to take a nap. Find your favorite blanket or pillow; curl up with your pet. Give yourself that 20 minutes or so to just rest (literally).
Watch an episode of your favorite TV show or your favorite movie.
Go for a quick (or, in my case, not-so-quick) jog or trip to the gym.
Take a warm bath with essential oils or bath salts.
Pick up your favorite dessert/coffee/snack to chow down on.
Journal about your day or goals or things you are thankful for.
Call (not just text!) a friend just to chat.
Sit outside.
Go to the movies alone.
Wear your favorite outfit.
Play a video game.
Start reading a book.
Listen to an uplifting podcast.
Sing your favorite song out loud.
Dance!
Seriously, y’all, the list can go on and on. It’s THAT easy!
Why is Self-Care Important
I can hear your next question: But, why is this important? Taking time to take care of yourself revitalizes your energy and stamina while simultaneously reducing your stress and anxiety. It gives your mind and body time to repair itself and prepare for the next round of responsibilities. It increases your ability to get things done, which also begins to increase your confidence and self-efficacy. Self-care helps you be the best you, you can be. And, when you are your best self, you can give your best self to other people. You can be more authentic with your time, friends, family, and job. You can be happier about the life you live. Please remember, as with everything else in life, use self-care in moderation. This blog post is not a free pass to forego all responsibility or become selfish. Use self-care wisely and as needed.
Although it’s called SELF-care, it actually benefits more than just you. Trust me when I say, you won’t be the only one thankful that you started taking the time to take care of yourself.
If you would like help with finding a new path to self-care and balance in 2017 please contact me at 832-421-8714 or here.